May Bank Holiday weekend packed with Gathering events

Published: Fri 3 May 2013, 12:32 PM

Last updated: Fri 3 May 2013, 1:40 PM

There’s no shortage in things to do this May Bank Holiday weekend thanks to a wide number of Gatherings planned throughout the country.
131 gatherings are planned over the three days and a large number of overseas visitors are expected to visit the events. If you’re still looking for something to do this weekend check out some of our favourite options below:

•The Father Ted Festival, Co. Clare - The annual event gets a Gathering twist with Fr. Ted fans from across the USA and the UK travelling to Co. Clare to dance at the Ecumeniceili.

•Latvian Culture Day, Dublin - Temple Bar in Dublin hosts the second Latvia Culture Day this weekend. The event will bring together Latvian choirs and dance groups from Ireland, Latvia, England, Germany and Switzerland.

•Drogheda Fringe and Maritime Tall Ships Festival, Louth - Ships will arrive in town on Friday, May 3 and will be open to the public on Saturday and Sunday, May 4 and May 5. It will be possible to book a passage from Liverpool and sail into Drogheda on the ships, just as it was in the 1800s.

•Gathering at Uisneach, Westmeath - Gatherings have taken place at the Hill of Uisneach for over 2,000 years, with Bealtaine being the main one every May. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, Festival of the Fires has become a cultural community pilgrimage, culminating in signature parade and national fire ceremony, uniting the island and the communities within.

•Women in Veterinary, Athleague, Roscommon - Celebrating the life of Ms Aleen Cust, MRCVS, the first female veterinary surgeon in Ireland and the UK, a special gathering to include a talk about her life and influence will be held, followed by buffet dinner and local tours.

•Festival of Finn, Corofin, Co. Clare - The revival of the Festival of Finn is happening for The Gathering. Corofin’s twin town in France is invited, as well as angling associations abroad. Part of the fun-filled programme will be Ireland’s Best Beard Competition, Garden Fête at The Farmyard, the Anglers Paradise Fishing Competition and Lark at the Lake, as well as cultural and sporting events.